Interior trends: what is traditional farmhouse decor?

​​In these modern times, we all want a simpler life, so it’s no surprise that farmhouse decor is taking the world by storm. It’s cosy, comforting, and totally nostalgic. So, take a look at traditional farmhouse decor, learn the history behind the trend, how it’s inspired contemporary trends, and (most importantly) how we can create it in our homes.

What is the history behind the traditional farmhouse decor style?

Traditional farmhouse decor pays homage to the cosy farmhouse aesthetic. Inspired by the provincial homes of the first American settlers, the style is reminiscent of simpler times. Contrary to what you might think, traditional farmhouse decor isn’t precious or fussy. It incorporates rustic and handmade touches with a need for sturdy and practical furnishings. Focusing on robust pieces that are made to last. What doesn’t, you can make do and mend. It’s a little bit of that DIY cottagecore attitude without the added frills. If you’re after a warm and welcoming, fuss-free aesthetic in your house, then traditional farmhouse decor might just be the one for you.

Key characteristics of the traditional farmhouse decor style

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: warm and cosy colour palette

Compliment those architectural features with a warm and cosy colour palette. That doesn’t mean it has to be all whites and beiges (though we do love a neutral colour palette), you can go for warm greens and blues, like a Green 02, Green 05 or a Blue 02 kitchen. A classic wallpaper, like our Chinoiserie 01 would look gorgeous in a traditional farmhouse style bathroom. Take a look at our guide on how to style the new neutral colours in your home.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: wall panelling

Another way to layer your decor and create texture (especially if you don’t have any original architectural features) is with wall panelling. We’d recommend shiplap cladding for that traditional farmhouse look. Use reclaimed wood for a rustic look or paint it to compliment your decor scheme. Gorgeous in a bathroom, kitchen, bedroom—any room really—shiplap cladding is the perfect way to add instant character to a space.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: natural woods and materials

Likewise, if you don’t have original architectural features incorporate natural woods and materials into your home through your furnishings. Look for reclaimed barn-style doors with rustic ironmongery fittings. You can even make a statement from your firewood by creating a log feature wall by a fireplace or store it in a large wicker basket for that cosy fireside feel.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: practicality and comfort

The traditional farmhouses which inspired this trend, more than anything needed to be practical. Sturdy tables that would stand the test of time, trestle benches rather than individual chairs. An oversized kitchen island for prepping meals and comfy ottomans that double up as tables. It’s all a part of the traditional farmhouse trend marrying form and function.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: exposed architectural features

Originally, the farmhouses on which the traditional farmhouse trend is based would have been awash with architectural features like stone walls, exposed brick fireplaces or wooden beams. If your house has any of these—make a feature of them! Leave them bare rather than painting them and create that warm, rustic feel.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: vintage furniture and rustic accents

Embrace the past by sourcing vintage furniture and rustic accents. Look out for pieces that have had a past life, like peach crates repurposed as storage, steamer trunk coffee tables or a milk churn turned statement lamp. Keep it casual with a farmhouse sink and rustic open-shelving in your kitchen and celebrate the imperfections of shabby-chic pieces by upcycling your furniture.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: patterned fabrics

Patterned fabrics are a great way to add some fun and colour into a decor scheme whilst also being a fantastic way to tie a look together. The traditional farmhouse trend is all about classic fabric styles. Think a gingham sink curtain, ticking stripe table runner, lots of tartan throws in the living room or bedroom and don’t be afraid to throw a chintz armchair in there for good measure.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: trinkets and knick knacks

The fun part! And what really brings a look together. Flea market found trinkets and knick-knacks are a key component of traditional farmhouse decor. Vintage street signs or movie posters add character to any room whilst wall tapestries of framed embroidery will add texture to any space. Use a zinc planter to create an indoor herb garden in your kitchen or use a zinc milk churn as a rustic vase for flowers.

Traditional farmhouse decor characteristic: bring the outdoors in

Speaking of flowers, freshly cut or dried, they’re a great way to make a traditional farmhouse home look loved and lived in. Not only do they add a splash of colour, but they hark back to that ‘good life’ living. Keep your bouquets simple, rather than fussy (extra points if they’re picked straight from your garden)! Or if you really want to bring the look alive and bring the outdoors in, pot indoor plants in distressed terracotta pots (the kind you’d normally find in the garden). Just make sure that you include a saucer so you don’t drench your surfaces when you water them!

We wouldn’t be surprised if the traditional farmhouse trend has got you wanting to up sticks and move to the sticks. If you’re not ready to give up urbane living just yet, then why not take a look at the modern farmhouse decor trend, for an updated take on this traditional style.